David Raya extended his superb run of form as Arsenal equalled a club record for consecutive clean sheets that dates back to 1903. The Spanish goalkeeper helped Mikel Arteta’s side to an eighth straight shutout in all competitions with a 3-0 win over Slavia Prague — their 10th consecutive victory overall.
Raya, who has not conceded in the Champions League this season, was on the verge of another personal milestone when a late penalty was awarded, only for VAR to overturn the decision. Arsenal have now gone nearly 13 hours without conceding, facing just 12 shots on target in that time.
Since joining from Brentford in 2023, Raya has kept 50 clean sheets in 110 games, surpassing Jimmy Ashcroft’s tally from the early 1900s. Despite long spells with little to do, Raya says focus is key:
“You never know when the other team is going to have a chance. You have to be alert 90, 100 minutes every game,” he said.
Arteta praised his goalkeeper’s mentality and sharpness, crediting his close work with goalkeeping coach Iñaki Caña, who previously trained him at Brentford. Raya currently boasts the best save percentage in the Premier League (84.2%), as well as one of the league’s highest recorded speeds for a goalkeeper, over 30 km/h.
His confidence and proactive style — racing off his line and initiating attacks — have become central to Arsenal’s defensive transformation. With a league trip to Sunderland next, Raya remains grounded:
“I have to stay ready and help the team however I can. That’s what matters most.”
